9 Important Elements of the ISM Code Every Seafarer Must Know About
- Dushyant Bisht
- 1 hour ago
- 6 min read
When you step aboard a ship, safety isn’t just a practice, it’s a system. The International Safety Management (ISM) Code is that system.
Developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the ISM Code defines how ships and companies should operate safely at sea through structured rules, accountability, and continuous improvement. For every seafarer, understanding these principles isn’t optional, it’s essential for compliance, safety, and career growth.
Here’s a breakdown of the 9 core elements of the ISM Code, what they mean, and why they matter for every ship and crew.
1. Safety and Environmental Protection Policy
Every shipping company must have a clear Safety Management System (SMS) that begins with a written policy statement. This safety and environmental protection policy defines how the company intends to operate ships safely, prevent pollution, and comply with international and national regulations [1].
A strong policy goes beyond compliance, it guides every decision onboard. From cargo loading to waste management, this document sets expectations and culture. It’s usually displayed on the bridge and in crew common areas, reminding everyone of their shared responsibility.
2. Company Responsibilities and Authority
The ISM Code assigns clear company responsibilities in ISM, ensuring no confusion about who is accountable for what.
The shipowner or managing company must:
Provide adequate resources and shore-based support.
Designate clear lines of authority.
Ensure the ship’s master has the tools to implement safety policies.
In essence, it makes everyone’s job safe, from top management to cadets.
3. Designated Person Ashore (DPA)
The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) acts as the crucial link between the ship and the shore office.
The DPA’s role is to:
Monitor the safe operation of each ship.
Ensure proper communication between vessel and management.
Report non-conformities and support corrective actions [2].
A competent DPA ensures that seafarer concerns reach company leadership quickly, making the difference between reactive and proactive safety management.
4. Master’s Responsibility and Authority
Under the ISM Code, the Master is the final authority on board. Their responsibility includes implementing the SMS, motivating crew to follow procedures, and ensuring compliance with ship safety regulations.
Importantly, the ISM Code empowers the Master to make independent decisions in emergencies, even if it means deviating from company policy, when safety is at risk [3].
For seafarers, this principle means clarity: when in doubt, follow the Master’s command during critical operations.
5. Resources and Personnel
Safety systems are only as strong as the people running them. This element ensures every crew member is properly trained, certified, and medically fit.
Companies must provide:
Adequate manning levels.
Training in safety procedures and emergency drills.
Familiarization with the SMS before joining a vessel.
This principle supports Seafarer Safety Compliance, ensuring every crew member can respond effectively during real-world emergencies. The ISM Code emphasizes ongoing training, not just one-time certification.
6. Development of Plans for Shipboard Operations
A ship’s day-to-day safety depends on detailed operational planning.
Under this element, every key activity, from bunkering and cargo operations to navigation and maintenance, must follow documented procedures.
These operational plans form the backbone of the Safety Management System (SMS), helping officers ensure uniform and predictable operations. When properly implemented, they reduce risk, enhance coordination, and standardize response even across different crews or routes [4].
7. Emergency Preparedness
Even with good planning, emergencies happen. This ISM element requires companies and ships to anticipate and prepare for crises from fire, flooding, collision, pollution, or machinery failure.
Ships must conduct regular emergency drills and simulations, maintain emergency contact lists, and update contingency plans based on real experiences.
The goal: no crew member should face uncertainty during a crisis. Everyone should know what to do, whom to call, and where to go.
8. Reporting and Analysis of Non-Conformities, Accidents, and Hazardous Occurrences
This element defines how ships learn from mistakes.
Any accident, near-miss, or non-conformity must be reported through formal procedures. Reports go to the DPA or safety officer, who investigates causes and recommends corrective measures.
ISM’s intent isn’t punishment, it’s prevention.
Each report strengthens the Safety Management System by identifying weak points before they lead to bigger incidents. Many companies maintain “no-blame” reporting cultures to encourage open communication [5].
9. Maintenance of the Ship and Equipment
Proper maintenance ensures reliability and compliance. Under the ISM Code, every ship must have a structured maintenance plan that includes:
Regular inspections.
Scheduled equipment tests.
Preventive maintenance routines.
Corrective actions logged and verified.
This element ensures ships meet all ship safety regulations, reducing downtime and avoiding detentions during ISM audit and inspection processes.
Modern SMS systems often use digital tools for tracking maintenance tasks, allowing ship managers and DPAs to monitor compliance in real time.
Certification and Continuous Improvement
Two certificates validate compliance with the ISM Code:
Document of Compliance (DOC): Issued to a company by its flag state after verifying its management system meets ISM standards.
Safety Management Certificate (SMC): Issued to individual ships once they pass an audit confirming the SMS is effectively implemented onboard [6].
Together, the DOC and SMC demonstrate that both the company and its vessels are committed to safety and environmental protection.
ISM certification is not a one-time achievement. Ships undergo periodic audits and inspections by flag states or recognized organizations. Continuous improvement, learning from audits, incidents, and operational data, keeps the system alive.
Why ISM Code Awareness Matters for Every Seafarer
For seafarers, the ISM Code isn’t an abstract legal framework. It’s the foundation of safe and efficient operations.
Here’s why it matters:
Predictability: Everyone follows the same procedures, reducing confusion.
Accountability: Roles are clearly defined, you know what’s expected.
Protection: Proper compliance safeguards your license and your life.
Performance: Audits and structured systems improve operational discipline.
In an era of digital transformation and stricter environmental rules, ISM compliance goes beyond safety, it’s now integral to a ship’s operational excellence and reputation.
The Future of ISM and Digital Safety
The ISM Code continues to evolve with technology. Many ship operators now use integrated software platforms that automate safety reporting, track maintenance, and provide real-time communication with the DPA.
Artificial intelligence and big data are being used to predict machinery failures, reducing human error and enabling preventive maintenance [7].
The next generation of Safety Management Systems will blend automation with human judgment, keeping seafarers at the center while improving efficiency and compliance.
Conclusion
The ISM Code is more than a regulatory checklist. It’s a living framework that empowers seafarers and companies to operate ships safely, efficiently, and responsibly.
Understanding its 9 elements, from the Safety Management System (SMS) to audits, from the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) to the Document of Compliance (DOC), ensures that every seafarer contributes to a culture of continuous safety improvement.
For ship owners, operators, and crews alike, compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s about building trust in your ship, your team, and your future at sea.
Disclaimer:
This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. All digital assets carry inherent risks, including potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please review the relevant offer and risk disclosures carefully before making any financial decision.
FAQS For ISM Code in shipping
What is the ISM Code in shipping?
The ISM Code is an international safety framework requiring shipping companies to establish structured systems for safe vessel operation, environmental protection, emergency preparedness, and continuous compliance through documented procedures and audits.
What are the 9 elements of the ISM Code?
The nine elements include safety policies, responsibilities, designated person, master’s authority, resources, operational procedures, emergency plans, reporting systems, and documentation controls, ensuring ships operate safely with consistent company oversight and accountability.
What is the difference between DOC and SMC?
A DOC certifies that a company meets ISM Code requirements, while an SMC confirms an individual vessel’s compliance. Both documents demonstrate structured safety management at corporate and ship levels.
What are company responsibilities under ISM?
Companies must provide safe operating procedures, allocate resources, train crews, maintain equipment, conduct audits, report incidents, and ensure continuous improvement of safety systems for effective vessel management and regulatory compliance.
What does a Designated Person Ashore (DPA) do?
A DPA acts as the link between ship and company, monitoring safety performance, supporting compliance, addressing crew concerns, and ensuring the Safety Management System functions effectively across all operations.
References (APA 7th Edition)
International Maritime Organization. (2023). ISM Code: International Safety Management Code and Guidelines on Implementation. Retrieved from https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/HumanElement/Pages/ISMCode.aspx
Lloyd’s Register. (2024). Understanding the Role of the Designated Person Ashore. Retrieved from https://www.lr.org/en/insights/ism-code/
DNV. (2024). ISM Code Explained for Ship Operators. Retrieved from https://www.dnv.com/maritime/insights/topics/ism-code.html
MarineInsight. (2023). Elements of the ISM Code and Their Importance. Retrieved from https://www.marineinsight.com/maritime-law/ism-code-elements/
The Nautical Institute. (2024). Safety Reporting and Human Factors in ISM Compliance. Retrieved from https://www.nautinst.org/
ABS Group. (2023). ISM Code Certification and Audit Process. Retrieved from https://www.abs-group.com/
Wärtsilä. (2024). Digital Safety Management: The Future of ISM Compliance. Retrieved from https://www.wartsila.com/insights/